I think it's worth mentioning because many here don't like this type of guy, but Dubas signs one every year to play with the Marlies. Obviously Dubas sees a value, and he's stated this a few times in the press.

I imagine this signing is so the other team's enforcer has someone to fight more than anything else - though, with the new rules, even that value is limited. AHL teams need to sell tickets, too, and with the lesser skill level and lack of household names, they need something - and that something is fighting, I suppose.

I imagine this signing is so the other team's enforcer has someone to fight more than anything else - though, with the new rules, even that value is limited. AHL teams need to sell tickets, too, and with the lesser skill level and lack of household names, they need something - and that something is fighting, I suppose.

Possibly, though, I imagine Prust will be looking for an NHL contract even if he'll be playing in the AHL.

Sure, just that beggars aren't going to be choosers at this point, a nice tidy deal that pays him well to play in the A isn't horrible, especially if he thinks he needs the money. I'm also not really saying the Leafs should do that, just that I could see it.

Both Nylander and Johnson suffer bad head concussions, the solution, a couple of dudes who will do the Ray Donavon on anyone who f___ks with our players. Sorry but until the league officially outlaws fighting which I hope they will do, is you gotta protect the talent or a price will be paid.

Ya Freddie looked good and i would have liked to see him on the Leafs but he will get a lot more time to play and develop with the Marlies, and no space for Kapanen as yet. I also though Sparks played well.Timashov definetly needs some development time.Also very excited about Neilson (he could develop into something very good). not so excited about Dermott but we have time on our side.

Marlies are 2-0 to start their season with a roster that looks pretty OP for the AHL, loaded with on-the-cusp-of-the-NHL-level players (and vets that have fallen off the Leaf roster).

Leading the charge this year (so far in this small sample size) are the kids. Kapanen and Leipsic sporting 5 pts (1G/4A both) in two games, Johnsson potting 3 PP goals himself (50% of the Marlie PP goals, and infinitely more than the Leafs), Nielsen, Dermott, and Timashov all potting their first AHL points.

Nielsen's first pro goal, and first Marlie goal of the season: https://streamable.com/rnzkKapanen's first goal of the season: https://streamable.com/qf44Kapanen feeds Timashov: https://streamable.com/rlmd

I personally think all the newfound success, (I realize it's still early in the game) can be directly attributed to Mark Hunter and his ability to scout out these great up and coming players for the organization. More than I can recall with past administrations, , there just seems to be more hits than misses at the last few drafts he's run.

I'm super excited about our prospects, but a couple of caveats:a) This is early goings still and a very, very small sample size. They're trending in positive directions though.b) As much credit as we can give to Hunter, there wasn't exactly a high hurdle to compare him to beforec) Scouting only takes you so far. I'd like to give credit to the development staff as well. No longer does the team just draft and hope players figure it out by playing, but there are concentrated efforts to help individuals develop their games (and off-ice lifestyles) to their fullest potential

I'm super excited about our prospects, but a couple of caveats:a) This is early goings still and a very, very small sample size. They're trending in positive directions though.b) As much credit as we can give to Hunter, there wasn't exactly a high hurdle to compare him to beforec) Scouting only takes you so far. I'd like to give credit to the development staff as well. No longer does the team just draft and hope players figure it out by playing, but there are concentrated efforts to help individuals develop their games (and off-ice lifestyles) to their fullest potential

I can agree with that Herman. And like I said, it is still early, but the early results have certainly been promising. It's been a long, long time since we've seen this organization run with this much professionalism, across the board. I'd be lying if I said its been easy to hide my enthusiasm with what Shanahan has done and is still doing since he became president. Add some much needed luck with the lottery draft win, and this team is finally beginning its ascent back up the ladder and into respectability again. The only question in my mind now is, how much longer will it take?

No longer does the team just draft and hope players figure it out by playing, but there are concentrated efforts to help individuals develop their games (and off-ice lifestyles) to their fullest potential

In addition to that, in the past, they seemed to try to apply a "one size fits all" approach to their secondary prospects (ie. guys they didn't draft early in the 1st round). The new group seems to much more adept at creating more targeted development game plans to address the specific needs of each prospect.

I thought Leipsic would make the Leafs this season. He didn't look out of place in limited games last year so I was surprised when he went back to the Marlies. Hopefully we see him and Soshnikov soon. Any injury update on Soshnikov?

I thought Leipsic would make the Leafs this season. He didn't look out of place in limited games last year so I was surprised when he went back to the Marlies. Hopefully we see him and Soshnikov soon. Any injury update on Soshnikov?

Sosh played one of the Comets games on Gauthier's line and got a PP goal, so I think he's okay now. There have been notes about Soshnikov overworking himself off ice leading to the injury, so letting him work on some stuff with the Marlies and build up his body is not the worst thing. I have him slotted over Martin and Hyman (skill-wise) and Leivo and would love to see him with Kadri again but we have plenty of time to be patient.

I thought Leipsic would make the Leafs this season. He didn't look out of place in limited games last year so I was surprised when he went back to the Marlies. Hopefully we see him and Soshnikov soon. Any injury update on Soshnikov?

Sosh played one of the Comets games on Gauthier's line and got a PP goal, so I think he's okay now. There have been notes about Soshnikov overworking himself off ice leading to the injury, so letting him work on some stuff with the Marlies and build up his body is not the worst thing. I have him slotted over Martin and Hyman (skill-wise) and Leivo and would love to see him with Kadri again but we have plenty of time to be patient.

We also have to accept that the only guy in the top 9 we can say with any certainty won't be around long term is Michalek. There's just not a lot of ice time available as it stands.

We also have to accept that the only guy in the top 9 we can say with any certainty won't be around long term is Michalek. There's just not a lot of ice time available as it stands.

The next season, we could be dropping Komarov, Bozak, JvR (maaaybe?) by the deadline as well. I don't think they're going to make any decisions on these guys until then, or a compelling offer lands on the table.

Leipsic's contract is up after this season, as well as his waiver eligibility. This is basically his make or break season. Soshnikov, Lindberg, Gauthier, and Kapanen have a bit more runway in line with the aforementioned NHL top-9 departures.

What gives me a bit more comfort with that than usual is this management team showed they were willing to dump decent short term vets for youth with promise. Lamoriello's comments indicated that this might have been a special case scenario this season, however as we're still on the tail end of the teardown overlapping with the building phase.

I thought Leipsic would make the Leafs this season. He didn't look out of place in limited games last year so I was surprised when he went back to the Marlies. Hopefully we see him and Soshnikov soon. Any injury update on Soshnikov?

Sosh played one of the Comets games on Gauthier's line and got a PP goal, so I think he's okay now. There have been notes about Soshnikov overworking himself off ice leading to the injury, so letting him work on some stuff with the Marlies and build up his body is not the worst thing. I have him slotted over Martin and Hyman (skill-wise) and Leivo and would love to see him with Kadri again but we have plenty of time to be patient.

We also have to accept that the only guy in the top 9 we can say with any certainty won't be around long term is Michalek. There's just not a lot of ice time available as it stands.

Yup, rather than reach a tipping point next year with waivers, I wonder if they try and turn four quarters into a dollar at some point.

I think we are going to see Andreas Johnsson very soon, I think he's better than the AHL already.

The next season, we could be dropping Komarov, Bozak, JvR (maaaybe?) by the deadline as well. I don't think they're going to make any decisions on these guys until then, or a compelling offer lands on the table.

Sure, that's why I said "with any certainty". Any manner of things could happen.

Leipsic's contract is up after this season, as well as his waiver eligibility. This is basically his make or break season. Soshnikov, Lindberg, Gauthier, and Kapanen have a bit more runway in line with the aforementioned NHL top-9 departures.

I get what you're saying here but it strikes me as such an odd way to think of it. Leipsic had a very good year last year and would have made the Leafs if they were in any other situation other than the one where they were already giving a ton of roster spots over to rookies. So the idea that they'd walk away from him if he has a less good year despite never really giving him a shot strikes me as a little strange, especially when you can say he maybe adds something to the mix someone like Kapanen doesn't.

I get what you're saying here but it strikes me as such an odd way to think of it. Leipsic had a very good year last year and would have made the Leafs if they were in any other situation other than the one where they were already giving a ton of roster spots over to rookies. So the idea that they'd walk away from him if he has a less good year despite never really giving him a shot strikes me as a little strange, especially when you can say he maybe adds something to the mix someone like Kapanen doesn't.

You raise a good point; my words suggested it, but I wasn't really entertaining the idea of dropping Leipsic (he's awesome). I was thinking more along the lines of that nebulous zone of being a 'highly tradable asset', a la WIGWAL's Grabner trade notion.

Leipsic's niche in the pipeline (smallish, fast, skilled winger) is one that is almost too full at the older end to hang onto for much longer, so it's going to be a bit of a dogfight for him to separate his game from Kapanen, Timashov and try to overtake Hyman or Soshnikov. Dzierkals, Bracco, Korostelev, Brooks, Walker are coming up very quickly as well.

He also has to convincingly pull away from slightly different wingers in Johnsson (sniper) and Lindberg (big 200-footer) because the NHL roster is already locked into Nylander, Marner, Brown for top 9 speed/skill wingers.

We also have to accept that the only guy in the top 9 we can say with any certainty won't be around long term is Michalek. There's just not a lot of ice time available as it stands.

Indeed. Connor Brown pretty much already has that Top 9 spot spoken for IMO, just too many bodies in his way. And I don't blame Babcock for running an all veteran line in Michalek - Kadri - Komarov to play against the opposition's top line, followed by Marner and Nylander on the right side- hence Brown being on the 4th line at the moment.

You raise a good point; my words suggested it, but I wasn't really entertaining the idea of dropping Leipsic (he's awesome). I was thinking more along the lines of that nebulous zone of being a 'highly tradable asset', a la WIGWAL's Grabner trade notion.

Leipsic's niche in the pipeline (smallish, fast, skilled winger) is one that is almost too full at the older end to hang onto for much longer, so it's going to be a bit of a dogfight for him to separate his game from Kapanen, Timashov and try to overtake Hyman or Soshnikov. Dzierkals, Bracco, Korostelev, Brooks, Walker are coming up very quickly as well.

He also has to convincingly pull away from slightly different wingers in Johnsson (sniper) and Lindberg (big 200-footer) because the NHL roster is already locked into Nylander, Marner, Brown for top 9 speed/skill wingers.

tl;dr: Why did we sign Martin?

Admittedly, I don't watch a ton of the Marlies but I'd thought that Leipsic had a bit of gritty sandpapery grit that the other guys didn't. One that might make him more suited than others to having a 4th line spot.

Anyways, one way of looking at it might be that the Leafs' are running out of easy decisions to make. Dealing Michalek is one and looking to deal Lupul I suppose is another but beyond that they're going to have to start making tough choices about who's really got a long term future here and who doesn't. Kadri might have been the first decision they made that wasn't an obvious one and now they have to apply that to JVR, Bozak and that glut of B prospects.

In addition to that, in the past, they seemed to try to apply a "one size fits all" approach to their secondary prospects (ie. guys they didn't draft early in the 1st round). The new group seems to much more adept at creating more targeted development game plans to address the specific needs of each prospect.

The addition of Darryl Belfry and expanded use of Barbara Underhill leads to things like this: https://streamable.com/qf44

That's Kapanen's first goal of the AHL season, which was a power drive from the neutral zone where he literally blows by everyone and cuts in front of the net for a forehander. He gains massive amounts of acceleration (especially relative to the defense which was trying to close the gap) by doing something that Belfry preaches to his players: crossing the feet.

Linear crossovers help players gain a huge amount of acceleration with less energy cost. Belfryĺs optimal crossover-per-step ratio is one to three. (https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2015/05/16/development-coaches-critical-nhl-players-success/Ak3isYonCvn3MbQEZhzsVJ/story.html)

Quote

ôIt generates momentum,ö Belfry said. ôIt changes speed. If you have momentum and change of speed, you can do a lot in the NHL with those two things.ö

You can see Kapanen winds up at his blue line. His curl time is accelerated with the crossovers (L over R). As he approaches the OZ and defenders, he switches to R over L briefly to pull his first checker up thinking he'll stop and curl for reinforcements, and then hits the gas going back to the L over R crossover to just divebomb the hapless goaltender.

Imagine Gauthier doing this.

Regardless of how fluid and clean their skating form is, players that don't have crossovers incorporated into their game yet will find themselves running out of steam by the time they break out of their own zone. Regular strides transfer a lot of the expended energy into sizeways acceleration, as forward travel = cosine of the stride angle (always < 1) * stride length.

In addition to that, in the past, they seemed to try to apply a "one size fits all" approach to their secondary prospects (ie. guys they didn't draft early in the 1st round). The new group seems to much more adept at creating more targeted development game plans to address the specific needs of each prospect.

The addition of Darryl Belfry and expanded use of Barbara Underhill leads to things like this: https://streamable.com/qf44

That's Kapanen's first goal of the AHL season, which was a power drive from the neutral zone where he literally blows by everyone and cuts in front of the net for a forehander. He gains massive amounts of acceleration (especially relative to the defense which was trying to close the gap) by doing something that Belfry preaches to his players: crossing the feet.

Linear crossovers help players gain a huge amount of acceleration with less energy cost. Belfryĺs optimal crossover-per-step ratio is one to three. (https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2015/05/16/development-coaches-critical-nhl-players-success/Ak3isYonCvn3MbQEZhzsVJ/story.html)

Quote

ôIt generates momentum,ö Belfry said. ôIt changes speed. If you have momentum and change of speed, you can do a lot in the NHL with those two things.ö

You can see Kapanen winds up at his blue line. His curl time is accelerated with the crossovers (L over R). As he approaches the OZ and defenders, he switches to R over L briefly to pull his first checker up thinking he'll stop and curl for reinforcements, and then hits the gas going back to the L over R crossover to just divebomb the hapless goaltender.

Imagine Gauthier doing this.

Regardless of how fluid and clean their skating form is, players that don't have crossovers incorporated into their game yet will find themselves running out of steam by the time they break out of their own zone. Regular strides transfer a lot of the expended energy into sizeways acceleration, as forward travel = cosine of the stride angle (always < 1) * stride length.

This is a great post.

You should consider writing for one of many Leafs blogs, your breakdowns of the specific techniques involved are very informative and better than most of the analysis on TV.

You should consider writing for one of many Leafs blogs, your breakdowns of the specific techniques involved are very informative and better than most of the analysis on TV.

Thanks! That's a suggestion I'll take under advisement. I haven't played any hockey beyond floor/road and wish I had the chance to get into it more, so reading about the skills development and systems and analytics-based strategies is of great interest to me.

I watched a couple of Marlies games last season via the AHL Live website, and I'd like to watch more, but the prices are pretty scandalous. Pretty much the feed off the arena video, with a radio play by play over the top, and it costs $8 per game.

$199 to watch every Marlies game. $349 to watch every AHL game.

EVERY SINGLE NHL game costs $119 on their streaming service which has actual proper TV quality coverage and studios and all

Well stupid Connor McDavid had to ruin it but for a little bit there the Leafs organization had players ranked 1-2 in scoring in both the NHL and AHL. Leipsic (12 points in 6 games) and Kapanen (9 points in 6 games) have sole possession of those spots in the A.

let me rephrase, I would rather have Kapenen up and Smith playing for the Marlies (but not put down)Kind of harsh to kill unwanted players when they can be sent to Robidas Island and play Shuffleboard all day.

You could move Komorav back to Centre the 4th line as he was a Centre and move Soshnikov to the first line and that moves Kapenen or Leipsic into the lineup. Brown has not really impressed either outside of one very good game. So seeing him demoted wouldnt really bother me.

If Smith is the guy you wanna demote, it it wouldn't be Kap or Leips replacing.

They'd need a center.

Holland could go back to centring the 4th line, he was doing a fine job at it before.

Although if Babcock REALLY needs a right-handed shot there who could kill penalties, I'd probably prefer... and I can't believe that I'm actually about to say this... Byron Froese over Smith right now.

Holland could go back to centring the 4th line, he was doing a fine job at it before.

Although if Babcock REALLY needs a right-handed shot there who could kill penalties, I'd probably prefer... and I can't believe that I'm actually about to say this... Byron Froese over Smith right now.

Holland could go back to centring the 4th line, he was doing a fine job at it before.

Although if Babcock REALLY needs a right-handed shot there who could kill penalties, I'd probably prefer... and I can't believe that I'm actually about to say this... Byron Froese over Smith right now.

Agreed with Busta, we gutted the organization completely, Nielson and McDermott are green around the gills and the veterans are playing out there contracts in relative unhappyness one would suppose.Add Goat to the Leafs and they are dead at the Centre spot

Probably shouldn't be a huge surprise, though, as they lost 10 of their top 11 scorers from last season.

The only performance so far that's a little disappointing to me would be Andreas Johnsson. I know it's his first year in North America but with his professional experience and the hype that surrounded him in Sweden I was expecting a little bit more from him.

The only performance so far that's a little disappointing to me would be Andreas Johnsson. I know it's his first year in North America but with his professional experience and the hype that surrounded him in Sweden I was expecting a little bit more from him.

Yeah. The hype machine was running strong with him, and, I think, made a lot of people forget that, all too frequently, success in European leagues does not translate across the ocean. Not saying it won't with him, but the expectations probably should have been a little more constrained.

Probably shouldn't be a huge surprise, though, as they lost 10 of their top 11 scorers from last season.

The only performance so far that's a little disappointing to me would be Andreas Johnsson. I know it's his first year in North America but with his professional experience and the hype that surrounded him in Sweden I was expecting a little bit more from him.

I'm with you on that Carlton, fairly or unfairly.

Kerby Rychel is another one I expected to really produce, given he wanted out of Columbus so bad.

Probably shouldn't be a huge surprise, though, as they lost 10 of their top 11 scorers from last season.

The only performance so far that's a little disappointing to me would be Andreas Johnsson. I know it's his first year in North America but with his professional experience and the hype that surrounded him in Sweden I was expecting a little bit more from him.

He is a strange cat that I still have really high hopes for. I've watched only about a quarter of the games I did last season, but when I have watched Johnsson will looks like the best player on the ice for a period and then you won't see him for another four or five periods.

He is very skilled, I think as his skating and defensive game mature this season he will start to break out a little more.

The only performance so far that's a little disappointing to me would be Andreas Johnsson. I know it's his first year in North America but with his professional experience and the hype that surrounded him in Sweden I was expecting a little bit more from him.

The only performance so far that's a little disappointing to me would be Andreas Johnsson. I know it's his first year in North America but with his professional experience and the hype that surrounded him in Sweden I was expecting a little bit more from him.

I definitely bought into the hype on him. I still have high hopes!

I'm going to give him a pass this year after that dirty hit that resulted in a concussion. If he's not performing by next season I think we have a problem.

The only performance so far that's a little disappointing to me would be Andreas Johnsson. I know it's his first year in North America but with his professional experience and the hype that surrounded him in Sweden I was expecting a little bit more from him.

I definitely bought into the hype on him. I still have high hopes!

I'm going to give him a pass this year after that dirty hit that resulted in a concussion. If he's not performing by next season I think we have a problem.

In some ways although this is a very bad break and not good news, suggests that this is an ankle injury (or broken foot) and not the dreaded ACL tear it looked like. If he is back in 8 weeks he will be ready for the playoffs.

In some ways although this is a very bad break and not good news, suggests that this is an ankle injury (or broken foot) and not the dreaded ACL tear it looked like. If he is back in 8 weeks he will be ready for the playoffs.

I'm assuming you mean the NHL Playoffs? Isn't looking good for the Marlies to make the AHL Playoffs.

In some ways although this is a very bad break and not good news, suggests that this is an ankle injury (or broken foot) and not the dreaded ACL tear it looked like. If he is back in 8 weeks he will be ready for the playoffs.

I'm assuming you mean the NHL Playoffs? Isn't looking good for the Marlies to make the AHL Playoffs.

Havent been following the standings that much. I guess I may of made a wrong assumption.

Was just reading about Marlies, and the kind of disappointing season they're having.

Looking at the up and comers, Kapanen and Leipsic are the only ones that might be ready to graduate. I thought this was kind of disappointing.

But really, is anyone expecting the Marlies to develop more than 2 NHL ready guys per season?

Good point, I would think 2 per season would do the trick. However it is possible to have a season were they may be able to graduate 4. I can see Neilson and Dermott being ready in 2 more years, by that time Kapenen and Leipsic may find a spot as well. And they seem to want to fast track Gundstrom to the Marlies for some reason.

The Marlies have also fought their way into a playoff spot, which admittedly I didn't see coming a couple of months ago. Corrado and Froese were both big parts of that though, so we'll see how they play without them.

I'd consider swinging Moore into the middle if our wings are so clogged.

Next year, we're adding Brooks, Bracco, Korostelev (currently injured), Dzierkals, Desrocher, Piccinich, Walker, Bobylev, and maybe Grundstrom, so this could get really stupid (awesome). Only one centre in that bunch. Maybe Cameranesi makes the move to centre too.

Lou mentioned that maybe half a dozen of the current Marlies are NHL capable right now (Kapanen, Leipsic, Griffith, Rychel, Gauthier being the obvious ones). Assuming one gets poached in expansion, and 2-3 graduate, the Marlies are looking staaaaacked next season.

The Marlies also made a bit of a strange move yesterday trading centre Colin Smith away for right-winger Mike Sislo. Smith, as some might remember, was acquired last year in the Matthias to Colorado trade. He went on a tear with the Marlies post-trade, scoring 22 points in 23 games. Signed an AHL deal in the summer. This season he's spent a lot of time on the wing for whatever reason and his scoring has dropped a bit but he's still been productive. Sislo seems like a roughly comparable AHLer but he's older and also has a bit of NHL experience. I'm just not sure why they'd move yet another centre out of the team.

I'd consider swinging Moore into the middle if our wings are so clogged.

Next year, we're adding Brooks, Bracco, Korostelev (currently injured), Dzierkals, Desrocher, Piccinich, Walker, Bobylev, and maybe Grundstrom, so this could get really stupid (awesome). Only one centre in that bunch. Maybe Cameranesi makes the move to centre too.

Lou mentioned that maybe half a dozen of the current Marlies are NHL capable right now (Kapanen, Leipsic, Griffith, Rychel, Gauthier being the obvious ones). Assuming one gets poached in expansion, and 2-3 graduate, the Marlies are looking staaaaacked next season.

You might be getting a little carried away there. Of the guys you mentioned Brooks, Bracco, and maybe Grunstrom would probably be the only guys with a good chance of being impact AHLers in their rookie seasons, if at all.

You might be getting a little carried away there. Of the guys you mentioned Brooks, Bracco, and maybe Grunstrom would probably be the only guys with a good chance of being impact AHLers in their rookie seasons, if at all.

I totally am, mostly from excitement that the Marlies will no longer be clogged with that many cap dumps.

I'd say Dzierkals has the best chance of the remaining bunch coming in. Walker and Bobylev will probably make a bit of hay but have consistency issues. Korostelev as well, but he'll get focused Barb time over the next couple of years (a la Leivo). I nothing Desrocher and Middleton, but they'll probably anchor the bottom pairing.

I think Kapanen and Leipsic will graduate for sure, maybe Gauthier depending on Boyle, and Griffith depending on his playoff showing and training camp.

So two of those guys (cough* JvR, Komarov cough*) would need to be moved. The above also doesn't account for the fact Leivo and Soshnikov might also end up as LW. (RW depth chart being Marner, Nylander, Brown, Sosh, Leivo, Kapanen... thats 6 guys for 4 spots. )

So two of those guys (cough* JvR, Komarov cough*) would need to be moved. The above also doesn't account for the fact Leivo and Soshnikov might also end up as LW. (RW depth chart being Marner, Nylander, Brown, Sosh, Leivo, Kapanen... thats 6 guys for 4 spots. )

Yeah, getting ahead of myself and forgot to mention: I was assuming JvR and Komarov would be gone -- Bozak too, moving Nylander to C.

So two of those guys (cough* JvR, Komarov cough*) would need to be moved. The above also doesn't account for the fact Leivo and Soshnikov might also end up as LW. (RW depth chart being Marner, Nylander, Brown, Sosh, Leivo, Kapanen... thats 6 guys for 4 spots. )

Even still that's putting a ton of pressure on Leipsic or Rychel to not only be productive NHLers but to be legitimate 1st line players.

So two of those guys (cough* JvR, Komarov cough*) would need to be moved. The above also doesn't account for the fact Leivo and Soshnikov might also end up as LW. (RW depth chart being Marner, Nylander, Brown, Sosh, Leivo, Kapanen... thats 6 guys for 4 spots. )

Yeah, getting ahead of myself and forgot to mention: I was assuming JvR and Komarov would be gone -- Bozak too, moving Nylander to C.

Still makes Rychel the 13th forward. That's without bringing Boyle back, which I do believe management wants to do. I do wonder if the lack of size on that third line makes it an impossibility in reality.

Also, Gauthier becomes waiver-eligible next year I believe (but not confident in that statement). EDIT: I was WRONG. SAD! Won't be eligible until 2018-2019.

As we all should. But I'm wonder about the Leafs' current depth, where players might slot in...

JvR==Nik's 1L bar==LeipsicLeivoRychel?HymanMartin

I guess I'd have to see what Leipsic and Rychel could do at the NHL level before I put them into any sort of definitive slot on the depth chart. I don't think either of them have shown enough to the point where you can definitively say they'll be really good top 6 forwards and, as a result, the Leafs should probably keep an eye open for other options at the position.

It's a loan from the Sabres to the Marlies, a la Raffi Torres was loaned by the Leafs to his existing team, the San Jose Barracuda, or when the sens picked up Matt Frattin but loaned him back to the Marlies.

It's a loan from the Sabres to the Marlies, a la Raffi Torres was loaned by the Leafs to his existing team, the San Jose Barracuda, or when the sens picked up Matt Frattin but loaned him back to the Marlies.

I get the Torres thing: SJ got rid of a contract...but this is different...why would Buffalo want to help out the Marlies?

It's a loan from the Sabres to the Marlies, a la Raffi Torres was loaned by the Leafs to his existing team, the San Jose Barracuda, or when the sens picked up Matt Frattin but loaned him back to the Marlies.

I get the Torres thing: SJ got rid of a contract...but this is different...why would Buffalo want to help out the Marlies?

It's a loan from the Sabres to the Marlies, a la Raffi Torres was loaned by the Leafs to his existing team, the San Jose Barracuda, or when the sens picked up Matt Frattin but loaned him back to the Marlies.

I get the Torres thing: SJ got rid of a contract...but this is different...why would Buffalo want to help out the Marlies?

O'Rielly is disgruntled with the Amerks/Sabres and Tim Murray cares about feelings.

It's a loan from the Sabres to the Marlies, a la Raffi Torres was loaned by the Leafs to his existing team, the San Jose Barracuda, or when the sens picked up Matt Frattin but loaned him back to the Marlies.

I get the Torres thing: SJ got rid of a contract...but this is different...why would Buffalo want to help out the Marlies?

O'Rielly is disgruntled with the Amerks/Sabres and Tim Murray cares about feelings.

I've tried to follow the Marlies the last couple of seasons. Followed their social media, set up feeds to get their results on my phone etc. I've watched a few games on AHL Live (despite it being silly expensive). But I find it hard to really care so the games kind of almost bore me.

Is there a Marlies core of fans who are Marlies first, or is it mostly people looking to watch Leaf prospects etc. Is there anyone here who would be a proper Marlies "fan/supporter"?

I've tried to follow the Marlies the last couple of seasons. Followed their social media, set up feeds to get their results on my phone etc. I've watched a few games on AHL Live (despite it being silly expensive). But I find it hard to really care so the games kind of almost bore me.

Is there a Marlies core of fans who are Marlies first, or is it mostly people looking to watch Leaf prospects etc. Is there anyone here who would be a proper Marlies "fan/supporter"?

No Arn, I think we all look at the Marlies as the development camp and feeding tube for the Loafs

The Marlies now sit atop the North division with 79 points in 68 games. They are a little lucky as their division is pretty easily the worst of the 4 in the AHL right now. Despite sitting atop their division they rank just 12th overall in the league. Still, they've definitely been one of the best teams for the past few months.

They had a 3-in-3 this weekend, these were their forward line-ups on the weekend:

It's interesting that when Kapanen and Leipsic went down with injuries earlier in the year they were leading the team offensively, and now they find themselves a little lower in the line-up. That hasn't really slowed those 2 down though. Leispic has 5 points in 7 games since returning to the line-up (including 4 points in the 3 games this weekend). Kapanen has 10 points in 10 games since returning from his injury.

Cal O'Reilly, the new centre the Marlies acquired, has 6 points in 7 games with the team. Mike Sislo has been a good addition to the team too, scoring 13 points in 11 games since being traded for Colin Smith. The other Marlies addition around the deadline, Sergey Kalinin, has been a bit of a bust offensively with just 3 points in 13 games.

Kerby Rychel is on a 3-game pointless streak but prior to that he had 21 points in his last 20 games. Andreas Johnsson is on a 7-game point streak and has 26 points in his last 26 games.And last but not least Seth Griffith has 37 points in 30 games since going down to the Marlies. That Pt/game pace would put him tied for 1st overall in the league in scoring.

Garret Sparks' performance also deserves mentioning. He's 18-7-0 with a 2.08 GAA and 0.927 Sv%. That gives him the 2nd best GAA and the 2nd best Sv% in the league. Bibeau is 13-14-5 with a 3.08 GAA and 0.894 Sv%. The Marlies literally have one of the best goalies in the league and one of the worst, and the worst one has more GP for some reason. Thankfully the team has fixed that situation. Prior to December 28th Bibeau had 16 starts while Sparks had just 6. Since then the starts are 20 to 15 in favour of Sparks. Sparks missed about a month with an injury too but he just returned this weekend (good timing if Andersen is hurt).

Inspired by a post on reddit (https://www.reddit.com/r/leafs/comments/61p20m/toronto_marlies_have_now_retaken_1st_place_in_the/):

Yea, on the eve of the twentieth day, of the first month of the year twenty seventeen, the Panthers of Florida did waive their claim to one Seth, of the Wallaceburg Griffiths. The Maple Leafs of Toronto saw fit to expend a contract slot and re-stake their claim to the rights for Seth, in the hopes of returning him to their fold.

On that following day, Seth of the Griffiths was welcomed back to Toronto, under the watchful eye of Kyle of the Dubases, and entered service with the Marlboroughs of Toronto.

Up until this time, the Marlboroughs of Toronto had suffered many losses. Not only had they lost more than half of their battles (16-19-3), but their most stalwart scorers had also fallen to injury. They were in the doldrums after their previous season of success under the leadership of the Golden Child, William of Nyland (also known as the Scoring Guy), and his band of relentless forecheckers (Zach of the Hymans, Connor of the Browns, Nikita of Soshnik).

Seth of the Griffiths could not have arrived at a better time. Since he began plying his trade for the Marlboroughs of Toronto, the tide of the season's battles did turn, granting victory to his team much more often than not (21-7-2). They have since reclaimed possession of the coveted top spot in their division.

---

tl;dr: Today, the Marlies are 37-26-5, and now sit atop the North Division.Up to Jan 20, they were 16-19-3; win% = 0.421. Jan 21 to now: 21-7-2; win% = 0.700.

I am glad to see Kapanen get the call-up ahead of Griffith too. Seriously. Lots of great AHL scorers aren't NHL players. Kapanen has spent a bunch of this year on the PK for the Marlies too so that addresses one of Babcock's desires from his 4th line RW.

I am glad to see Kapanen get the call-up ahead of Griffith too. Seriously. Lots of great AHL scorers aren't NHL players. Kapanen has spent a bunch of this year on the PK for the Marlies too so that addresses one of Babcock's desires from his 4th line RW.

I'm perfectly okay with Kapanen getting the call ahead of Griffith. I think PK, as you mention, is one of the reasons, but it was always in their plans to bring him up this season if possible. His injury put a bit of a damper that plan initially, but I think we'll be seeing a much more assertive Kapanen this time around.

Kapanen has spent a bunch of this year on the PK for the Marlies too so that addresses one of Babcock's desires from his 4th line RW.

I'd be somewhat impressed by Babcock if he actually played Kapanen on the PK. I just didn't get the sense that Babcock saw him as a penalty killer type in Kap's limited time with the Leafs last season. I'm not saying it won't ever happen, but given what's at stake right now I don't see it.

Kapanen has spent a bunch of this year on the PK for the Marlies too so that addresses one of Babcock's desires from his 4th line RW.

I'd be somewhat impressed by Babcock if he actually played Kapanen on the PK. I just didn't get the sense that Babcock saw him as a penalty killer type in Kap's limited time with the Leafs last season. I'm not saying it won't ever happen, but given what's at stake right now I don't see it.

Apparently Babcock and Lou were at the Marlies game yesterday. Kapanen stood out all game, including on the PP and PK. Kapanen has made huge strides defensively this year according to Keefe. Fingers crossed Babcock does actually play him- ahead of Smith and on the PK.

Kapanen has spent a bunch of this year on the PK for the Marlies too so that addresses one of Babcock's desires from his 4th line RW.

I'd be somewhat impressed by Babcock if he actually played Kapanen on the PK. I just didn't get the sense that Babcock saw him as a penalty killer type in Kap's limited time with the Leafs last season. I'm not saying it won't ever happen, but given what's at stake right now I don't see it.

Apparently Babcock and Lou were at the Marlies game yesterday. Kapanen stood out all game, including on the PP and PK. Kapanen has made huge strides defensively this year according to Keefe. Fingers crossed Babcock does actually play him- ahead of Smith and on the PK.

Other than convenient injuries to Leivo, Soshnikov, is there anything to read into Kapanen getting the call up with only 8 games left in the season? Or does his ELC no longer slide now that he has turned 20?

Kapanen has spent a bunch of this year on the PK for the Marlies too so that addresses one of Babcock's desires from his 4th line RW.

I'd be somewhat impressed by Babcock if he actually played Kapanen on the PK. I just didn't get the sense that Babcock saw him as a penalty killer type in Kap's limited time with the Leafs last season. I'm not saying it won't ever happen, but given what's at stake right now I don't see it.

Apparently Babcock and Lou were at the Marlies game yesterday. Kapanen stood out all game, including on the PP and PK. Kapanen has made huge strides defensively this year according to Keefe. Fingers crossed Babcock does actually play him- ahead of Smith and on the PK.

Other than convenient injuries to Leivo, Soshnikov, is there anything to read into Kapanen getting the call up with only 8 games left in the season? Or does his ELC no longer slide now that he has turned 20?

ELC no longer slides as he's two years out from his draft year. Unless I misunderstood the rules, its about the years from draft and age combined. Ie, Dermott, Nielsen, and Timashov are all on the Marlies this year and have already turned 20- but they were born after September 15th so they were 2015 draftee's. Cap Friendly shows them as Slide-Risk this season, while Kapanen isn't.

(Note, if you were 19 and drafted in 2015, then you wouldn't slide this year. Same with Adam Brooks next year, he won't slide at all despite being drafted last year.)

Aside from that woeful centre depth, that's the kind of attack balance I would like to see on the Leafs eventually.

Babcock prefers a Top-9/Bottom-3 in ice time spread, and a Scoring-6/Checking-6 in terms of line role. Defensively responsible wingers with scoring panache is where it's at if you have the right horses down the middle.

I hope somehow that Leipsic and Kapanen are paired up on the big club next year. Ideally surrounding Nylander but I think that would work for Kadri too.

Those 2 with Nylander would be awesome. I think them with Kadri would make a good scoring line too but it obviously wouldn't be able to get used in a shutdown role like Kadri did this season. But I am starting to have some doubts about whether Bozak and/or JVR get traded this offseason or not. If they do stay, I still think that whole line needs to get broken up. Throw JVR with Matthews and Marner with Kadri and you can still have Leispic and Kapanen together with Bozak.

Either way, I agree with the premise that both of them should get a fair shot at a top-9 role next season. Just watching the highlights from that game and Kapanen looks like such a different player when he's got skill around him. Still can't believe he was never put on the powerplay up here.

Dermott moves like an NHLer already, he has a bit of Gardiner about him in his own zone though.

If they are as committed to the plan as they say they are, I have a hard time understanding not moving JVR this summer. JVR with 50% retained could fetch a kings ransom from a contender looking to take another run.

Kasimir Kaskisuo got the start for the Marlies. Sparks was hurt in game 2.

Found it strange that Kaskisuo got the start in place of Bibeau (has he lost his mojor or something?). I had read that Kaskisuo was gone to the Solar Bears as Massa was hurt in the line brawl in their playoff game. Also Kappi took two stupid penalties last night, really dumb ones that Babs would have made him sit for a while

Bibeau still has the ability to be a .940 goalie in the AHL for stretches, the problem with him seems to me to be that he uses micro adjustments and it means often times against quality opponents he isn't "set" for the shot against, when he concedes a couple he doesn't seem to have the best bounce back ability.

Bibeau still has the ability to be a .940 goalie in the AHL for stretches, the problem with him seems to me to be that he uses micro adjustments and it means often times against quality opponents he isn't "set" for the shot against, when he concedes a couple he doesn't seem to have the best bounce back ability.

He is also terrible on high danger scrambles in front (moreso than most).

Marlies have signed recently ousted London Knight J.J. Piccinich to a 2-year AHL contract. He was drafted by the Leafs in 2014 in the 4th Rd. and played on the Knights' energy line.

As a secondary scoring right winger in Juniors, JJ will have a tough time cracking the Leafs' lineup anytime soon, with the likes of Nylander, Marner, Kapanen, Brown, Griffith, Bracco, Korostelev, Korshkov ahead of him.

Marlies have signed recently ousted London Knight J.J. Piccinich to a 2-year AHL contract. He was drafted by the Leafs in 2014 in the 4th Rd. and played on the Knights' energy line.

As a secondary scoring right winger in Juniors, JJ will have a tough time cracking the Leafs' lineup anytime soon, with the likes of Nylander, Marner, Kapanen, Brown, Griffith, Bracco, Korostelev, Korshkov ahead of him.

Is there a point where you will admit that Griffith may not be a thing?

Is there a point where you will admit that Griffith may not be a thing?

The Piccinich move (along with Cameranesi, Holl, Froese, Clune, Brennan, etc.) shows Toronto's intention of truly developing their assets. Instead of cutting bait, they're keeping them involved and inside their system, but off the SPC list, until such a time their value is realized (trade or call up).

With Griffith, I'm reminded of what Babcock mentioned about Kadri and JvR being young in their development, and his treatment of Corrado, Holland and Leivo, vs. Smith and Polak. Some players come from other organizations and their foundations (read: fitness, gudpro/60) aren't quite up to the standard Babcock wants/needs on the Leafs.

I think the Leafs are going to slow roll the rookies from here on out (never will we have a cohort such as this), so Griffith's value will come as an injury call-up into the top 9. I think he's worth a much longer look than he has received, even though he is not a slam dunk the way Nylander is. He's as AHL good as Leipsic, so if you're pretty high on Leipsic making hay in the NHL, thar be Griffith too.

Is there a point where you will admit that Griffith may not be a thing?

The Piccinich move (along with Cameranesi, Holl, Froese, Clune, Brennan, etc.) shows Toronto's intention of truly developing their assets. Instead of cutting bait, they're keeping them involved and inside their system, but off the SPC list, until such a time their value is realized (trade or call up).

With Griffith, I'm reminded of what Babcock mentioned about Kadri and JvR being young in their development, and his treatment of Corrado, Holland and Leivo, vs. Smith and Polak. Some players come from other organizations and their foundations (read: fitness, gudpro/60) aren't quite up to the standard Babcock wants/needs on the Leafs.

I think the Leafs are going to slow roll the rookies from here on out (never will we have a cohort such as this), so Griffith's value will come as an injury call-up into the top 9. I think he's worth a much longer look than he has received, even though he is not a slam dunk the way Nylander is. He's as AHL good as Leipsic, so if you're pretty high on Leipsic making hay in the NHL, thar be Griffith too.

Is there a point where you will admit that Griffith may not be a thing?

The Piccinich move (along with Cameranesi, Holl, Froese, Clune, Brennan, etc.) shows Toronto's intention of truly developing their assets. Instead of cutting bait, they're keeping them involved and inside their system, but off the SPC list, until such a time their value is realized (trade or call up).

With Griffith, I'm reminded of what Babcock mentioned about Kadri and JvR being young in their development, and his treatment of Corrado, Holland and Leivo, vs. Smith and Polak. Some players come from other organizations and their foundations (read: fitness, gudpro/60) aren't quite up to the standard Babcock wants/needs on the Leafs.

I think the Leafs are going to slow roll the rookies from here on out (never will we have a cohort such as this), so Griffith's value will come as an injury call-up into the top 9. I think he's worth a much longer look than he has received, even though he is not a slam dunk the way Nylander is. He's as AHL good as Leipsic, so if you're pretty high on Leipsic making hay in the NHL, thar be Griffith too.

It would also be a poor discussion-inducer, and an improv faux-pas. There's a method to my madness.

I don't think Griffith has really received a fair shake, coming from the Boston organization that seemed to embody everything Griffith wasn't.

There was one game last season where the Providence Bruins threw him in between Vatrano and Pastrnak to maintain team continuity as Pastrnak was only down on a conditioning stint, and they immediately exploded for an 8-1 win, Vatrano and Griffith both potting 5 pts each (3G/2A and 1/4GA respectively), while Pastrnak had 1G/2A. And it's not like Griffith was just riding shotgun to NHL firepower, as he was already at 34GP-13G-28A prior to that game. He's a very good skill complement.

Is there a point where you will admit that Griffith may not be a thing?

The Piccinich move (along with Cameranesi, Holl, Froese, Clune, Brennan, etc.) shows Toronto's intention of truly developing their assets. Instead of cutting bait, they're keeping them involved and inside their system, but off the SPC list, until such a time their value is realized (trade or call up).

With Griffith, I'm reminded of what Babcock mentioned about Kadri and JvR being young in their development, and his treatment of Corrado, Holland and Leivo, vs. Smith and Polak. Some players come from other organizations and their foundations (read: fitness, gudpro/60) aren't quite up to the standard Babcock wants/needs on the Leafs.

I think the Leafs are going to slow roll the rookies from here on out (never will we have a cohort such as this), so Griffith's value will come as an injury call-up into the top 9. I think he's worth a much longer look than he has received, even though he is not a slam dunk the way Nylander is. He's as AHL good as Leipsic, so if you're pretty high on Leipsic making hay in the NHL, thar be Griffith too.

Waived by Florida too. So waived by Boston, Toronto, and Florida in 1 season.

Veteran winger Rich Clune mentioned a couple of days ago how a series of mid-season meetings and player personnel moves changed direction when the Marlies were last in the North.

ôI give (GM) Kyle Dubas a lot of credit,ö Clune said. ôHe has a good feel of when to pick his spots and he hit the team with some truth in January, from the coaches down to the players. We turned this ship around and almost won the division.ö

Holl called the January soul-searching ôa come-to-Jesus momentö for the team. The Marlies then made the playoffs a sixth straight year and for the fifth time, are advancing beyond the first round.

ôDevelopment and winning go hand and hand here,ö Clune said.

ôItĺs an environment where you donĺt learn anything from losing. Sure you take lessons from some losses, but the ultimate goal is to win and encourage that culture. Itĺs an expectation when you sign now with the Leafs and the Marlies.ö

Kyle Dubas, the William Nylander of the management team, snipes one home.

I dug through the Marlies schedule/results (http://marlies.ca/schedule/54/335) to see when this turnaround happened.

It looks like they had basically the lowest point of the season Jan 14, after losing Kapanen the night before thanks to Dotchin crunching him awkwardly into the boards behind the net, with the team mired in the midst of a 5-13-1 stretch since the start of December.

They really turned it around after that week off, going 26-10-2 since January 20 to close out the season.

What else happened (http://www.tmlfans.ca/community/index.php?topic=4025.msg292134#msg292134) to the team Jan 20?

Just read it is Freddie's left leg. Here ares some comments about Grudstroms first game: " Grundstrom made his North American professional debut, while veteran Rich Clune got his first playoff action. Grundstrom had a goal and an assist, doing all the hard work on OĺReillyĺs goal.

ôIt was okay, I was a little rusty, I havenĺt played in a couple of weeks,ö said Grundstrom. ôBut I felt better as the game went on. I can play better.ö

I understand what you're saying; I would consider that a false equivalency though. Dotchin's a big body with good mobility, trained to play a game that encourages him to use his body to separate other players from the puck. His actions, though they have had some injurious results, have largely been within the confines of the game or within that error bar that questionable plays tend to fall under. He's encouraged to be greasy, but I don't really see him headhunting, or aiming for knee shots, or slewing feet. I don't like him or the way he plays, but that's what's encouraged in this sport that is inherently unsafe.

Advocating retaliation for past transgressions by way of threat of injury is a different matter in my books. I do get that others might not see it that way.

I seriously hope the Marlies/Leafs take some proactive steps towards Dotchin next time we face him.

I actually wouldn't mind off the ice even. Does anyone know where he spends his summers?

Is this just Internet tough guy talk? Or are you guys advocating premeditated assault?

I'm absolutely not, but at this point isn't that exactly what Dotchin's "play" amounts to?

I try not to allow others to determine my reactions but after 3 injuries caused by Dotchin going over the line I get my buttons pushed.

There is one area where a big body playing hard within the rules can see an opposing player injured. I get that. I have seen my youngest son's teams that over powered the opposition and I have seen him on teams that were simply over powered by the opposition. It was all within the rules.

I see that you feel that there wasn't 'headhunting' involved but I disagree. Gauthier was having a very good game and was taken out by Dotchin so late that it was OFF CAMERA! When Kapanen was playing so well that he was rumoured to be favoured to be called up Dotchin intentionally hit him in the knees behind the net. For a smooth skating, big defenseman.....that is greasy.

Do you see Adam McQuaid, Erik Gudbranson or Josh Manson crossing the line that way?

Gauthier has worked so hard since drafted to get at the level he is at and some reports are that he might not get back to that level due to the severity of this injury.

Guess I still feel an intentional perpetrator probably shouldn't be held to the eye for an eye standard no matter what I spew on the internet. I at least feel that Dotchin should be suspended until Gauthier is playing professional hockey again and should probably have his pay suspended until then as well. It would make players with Dotchin potential and decent skill set to think twice before cheapshotting an opponent.

I try not to allow others to determine my reactions but after 3 injuries caused by Dotchin going over the line I get my buttons pushed.

There is one area where a big body playing hard within the rules can see an opposing player injured. I get that. I have seen my youngest son's teams that over powered the opposition and I have seen him on teams that were simply over powered by the opposition. It was all within the rules.

I see that you feel that there wasn't 'headhunting' involved but I disagree. Gauthier was having a very good game and was taken out by Dotchin so late that it was OFF CAMERA! When Kapanen was playing so well that he was rumoured to be favoured to be called up Dotchin intentionally hit him in the knees behind the net. For a smooth skating, big defenseman.....that is greasy.

Do you see Adam McQuaid, Erik Gudbranson or Josh Manson crossing the line that way?

Gauthier has worked so hard since drafted to get at the level he is at and some reports are that he might not get back to that level due to the severity of this injury.

Guess I still feel an intentional perpetrator probably shouldn't be held to the eye for an eye standard no matter what I spew on the internet. I at least feel that Dotchin should be suspended until Gauthier is playing professional hockey again and should probably have his pay suspended until then as well. It would make players with Dotchin potential and decent skill set to think twice before cheapshotting an opponent.

In no way would I condone any of Dotchin's injury causing hits as acceptable (except Kapanen's which was just an awkward collision), but they are natural in the course of the way the game is played. My point is that this is a fast game that allows, nay encourages, physical contact. Early, on time, late hits are going to happen. Limbs in awkward angles in collisions are going to happen.

To posit that Dotchin kept track of Marlie players' eligibility for call ups and deliberately targeted them is a stretch. To surmise that he pursued injuring them is a further stretch.

What we have here is an understandably intense reaction to perceived intentional damages. Do physical players try to hit skilled players on the other team to throw them off their game and nullify their skill? Yes. Do players intentionally try to injure other star players to take them out? I can't say for certain in Dotchin's case(s), but it has definitely happened in the past in other situations and sports where machismo and emotions run unchecked.

Does any of that justify the sense of 'justice' that Todd Bertuzzi was operating under when he chased Steve Moore around the ice to pay him back for accidentally concussing Naslund? Should we as fans go about town looking to exact vigilante 'justice' for this?

Am I just overreacting to off-the-cuff anonymous posturing on the internet?

I try not to allow others to determine my reactions but after 3 injuries caused by Dotchin going over the line I get my buttons pushed.

There is one area where a big body playing hard within the rules can see an opposing player injured. I get that. I have seen my youngest son's teams that over powered the opposition and I have seen him on teams that were simply over powered by the opposition. It was all within the rules.

I see that you feel that there wasn't 'headhunting' involved but I disagree. Gauthier was having a very good game and was taken out by Dotchin so late that it was OFF CAMERA! When Kapanen was playing so well that he was rumoured to be favoured to be called up Dotchin intentionally hit him in the knees behind the net. For a smooth skating, big defenseman.....that is greasy.

Do you see Adam McQuaid, Erik Gudbranson or Josh Manson crossing the line that way?

Gauthier has worked so hard since drafted to get at the level he is at and some reports are that he might not get back to that level due to the severity of this injury.

Guess I still feel an intentional perpetrator probably shouldn't be held to the eye for an eye standard no matter what I spew on the internet. I at least feel that Dotchin should be suspended until Gauthier is playing professional hockey again and should probably have his pay suspended until then as well. It would make players with Dotchin potential and decent skill set to think twice before cheapshotting an opponent.

In no way would I condone any of Dotchin's injury causing hits as acceptable (except Kapanen's which was just an awkward collision), but they are natural in the course of the way the game is played. My point is that this is a fast game that allows, nay encourages, physical contact. Early, on time, late hits are going to happen. Limbs in awkward angles in collisions are going to happen.

To posit that Dotchin kept track of Marlie players' eligibility for call ups and deliberately targeted them is a stretch. To surmise that he pursued injuring them is a further stretch.

What we have here is an understandably intense reaction to perceived intentional damages. Do physical players try to hit skilled players on the other team to throw them off their game and nullify their skill? Yes. Do players intentionally try to injure other star players to take them out? I can't say for certain in Dotchin's case(s), but it has definitely happened in the past in other situations and sports where machismo and emotions run unchecked.

Does any of that justify the sense of 'justice' that Todd Bertuzzi was operating under when he chased Steve Moore around the ice to pay him back for accidentally concussing Naslund? Should we as fans go about town looking to exact vigilante 'justice' for this?

Am I just overreacting to off-the-cuff anonymous posturing on the internet?

At this point I would literally assign a player to teach him a "lesson". A capable fighter to chase him around the ice to coherence him into fight. A fighter that can easily beat him. Have him face up to his actions. If he chooses to embarrass himself like Claude Lemeuix he has to wear that. No cheap shots or Bertuzzi like actions.

At this point I would literally assign a player to teach him a "lesson". A capable fighter to chase him around the ice to coherence him into fight. A fighter that can easily beat him. Have him face up to his actions. If he chooses to embarrass himself like Claude Lemeuix he has to wear that. No cheap shots or Bertuzzi like actions.

Or, you know, the Marlies could just continue to ice their best possible line-up, win the series, and keep playing while Dotchin has to watch from the stands. It would almost be like they focused on the important part of the game - winning - rather than individual vendettas and vengeance.

Because remember when Darren McCarty beat up Claude Lemieux and after that Claude Lemieux completely changed as a player and never did anything dirty again?

Thinking about that a bit.

I know on my son's provincial teams there was a player that was good enough to make the team but was an idiot on and off the ice. It was like he had a disconnect between his brain and his emotions. It was weird. He would throw a late hit different times knowing the other team had a couple of guys that would pound him and even AFTER he was suspended he did it again. I was flabbergasted. He would do it and even be scared to go on the ice because he knew he was an idiot but then would do it again to a venerable player, etc.

That's why, although my heart prefers vigilante justice, in the post above I have considered for the 1st time that the offending player should be suspended at least for the length of the injury and in pro sports have their salary suspended for the same period. That is on top of the current punishments handed out for head shots, spearing, etc without serious injury. The only way for a suspended player to return early would be if the injured player (or guardian if the player is under age) applies for an exception or leaves hockey.

Because remember when Darren McCarty beat up Claude Lemieux and after that Claude Lemieux completely changed as a player and never did anything dirty again?

Thinking about that a bit.

I know on my son's provincial teams there was a player that was good enough to make the team but was an idiot on and off the ice. It was like he had a disconnect between his brain and his emotions. It was weird. He would throw a late hit different times knowing the other team had a couple of guys that would pound him and even AFTER he was suspended he did it again. I was flabbergasted. He would do it and even be scared to go on the ice because he knew he was an idiot but then would do it again to a venerable player, etc.

That's why, although my heart prefers vigilante justice, in the post above I have considered for the 1st time that the offending player should be suspended at least for the length of the injury and in pro sports have their salary suspended for the same period. That is on top of the current punishments handed out for head shots, spearing, etc without serious injury. The only way for a suspended player to return early would be if the injured player (or guardian if the player is under age) applies for an exception or leaves hockey.

We all ultimately want accountability which the NHL/AHL is clearly not willing to enforce. Common sense is not prevailing therefore I am suggesting the neanderthal approach since this seems to be the only available option.

We all ultimately want accountability which the NHL is clearly not willing to enforce. Common sense is not prevailing therefore I am suggesting the neanderthal approach since this seems to be the only available option.

Except that we've seen that the neanderthal approach does not lead to any semblance of accountability. It may, in fact, lead to less.

That's disappointing. Kaskisuo finishes the playoffs with a .892 save percentage in 10 games. He also put up a .899 save percentage in 32 ECHL games this season. Orlando's other goalie, Ryan Massa, was at .912 in 41 games so it's not like it was a team issue. Despite his little hot streak when he was called up he's likely a nothing prospect.

I'd try to find a veteran AHL goalie to platoon with Sparks next season and cut bait with both Kaskisuo and Bibeau. Maybe take a chance on a NCAA or European goalie for the ECHL club.

That's disappointing. Kaskisuo finishes the playoffs with a .892 save percentage in 10 games. He also put up a .899 save percentage in 32 ECHL games this season. Orlando's other goalie, Ryan Massa, was at .912 in 41 games so it's not like it was a team issue. Despite his little hot streak when he was called up he's likely a nothing prospect.

I'd try to find a veteran AHL goalie to platoon with Sparks next season and cut bait with both Kaskisuo and Bibeau. Maybe take a chance on a NCAA or European goalie for the ECHL club.

Didn't watch much of the Marlies at all, but is Sparks a potential legit NHL'er? A viable backup even?

Didn't watch much of the Marlies at all, but is Sparks a potential legit NHL'er? A viable backup even?

He's got a 0.922 career save percentage in the AHL, which is pretty good but he's only averaged 24 games played in his 3 active seasons there. It's never really seemed like the Leafs organization was very high on him. Even this season I've said before that Bibeau held onto the starters job for way too long before Sparks was finally given it. He turns 24 next month and he hasn't actually been a starter for a full season in the AHL yet. Even if that's not entirely his fault it's not exactly a good sign.

That's disappointing. Kaskisuo finishes the playoffs with a .892 save percentage in 10 games. He also put up a .899 save percentage in 32 ECHL games this season. Orlando's other goalie, Ryan Massa, was at .912 in 41 games so it's not like it was a team issue. Despite his little hot streak when he was called up he's likely a nothing prospect.

It's not great, but, you know, less fluid play in the minors and such, and the impact that sometimes has on goalie stats.